Urushi Lacquerware Artist

Haruka Sotome

Through the motifs of urushi lacquer and lips, the artist explores the fundamental nature of life itself.

Focusing on the duality of lacquer as both ornament and protection, the work reinterprets the relationship between beauty and function. Layering the celebratory symbolism and blood-like resonance of vermilion lacquer, the artist transforms the light and shadow inherent in life into sculptural form.

History

Born in Tochigi, Japan, in 1987.

Graduated from the Department of Fine Arts at Tohoku University of Art & Design in 2012, and completed a master's degree there in 2014.

Joined the Urushi Studio at the Kanazawa Utatsuyama Kogei Kobo (Kanazawa Utatsuyama Craft Workshop) in 2020 and completed the residency program in 2023.

Currently based in Kanazawa.

The artist has exhibited at GO FOR KOGEI, ART FAIR TOKYO, and other major exhibitions, and has also been featured in a television commercial for Mode Gakuen.

Works